[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 160 (Thursday, November 6, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2269]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       TRIBUTE TO RONNIE WILLETT

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, November 6, 2003

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to rise and pay tribute to a 
remarkable man from my district. Ronald Willett has dedicated his life 
to the betterment of the people of Pagosa Springs, Colorado and this 
nation. On October 2nd of this year, Ronnie announced his retirement 
from his position with the Pagosa Springs Sun Newspaper. For over four 
decades, Ronnie has worked tirelessly to keep the people of his 
community well informed. It is my honor to call the attention of this 
body of Congress, and this nation, to Ronnie's many contributions.
   Ronnie moved to Pagosa Springs in 1944, where he was a standout 
player on the Pagosa Springs football team. After graduating from high 
school, Ronnie joined the United States Navy in 1954. In the Navy, he 
served his country honorably and achieved the rank of Petty Officer 
First Class.
   Upon leaving the military, Ronnie went to work for the Pagosa 
Springs Sun in 1962, where he quickly became an accomplished 
newspaperman and was instrumental in the exponential growth of the 
newspaper's circulation. Ronnie used his position with the newspaper to 
take an active role in the community. Over the years, he donated a 
multitude of printing jobs to various community projects and volunteer 
groups.
   Ronnie's contributions to the citizens of Pagosa Springs reach far 
beyond his work with the Sun. In the 1960's, he was a member of the 
Jaycees and helped numerous youngsters build soapbox racers. Currently, 
he spends his time as a dedicated member of the Fleet Reserve 
Association, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Disabled American Veterans, and 
the American Legion.
   Mr. Speaker, it is truly a privilege to pay tribute to a man who has 
spent his life serving his fellow Coloradans and this nation. Ronnie's 
selfless dedication to his community and country is truly admirable. On 
behalf of the citizens of Pagosa Springs, and a grateful nation, I 
would like to thank Ronnie Willett for his service.




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